Operation Vala Umgodi in the Northern Cape continues to assert the authority of the state through various crime-fighting initiatives, conducted between Monday, 18 August and Saturday, 23 August 2025, in an effort to maintain law and order.
The SAPS combat and proactive teams in the Namakwa and Frances Baard Districts conducted Vehicle Check Points (VCPs), regular patrols at illegal mining hot spots, and compliance inspections at mining sites.
In the Frances Baard District, police received intelligence on illegal drug-dealing activities in Barkly West and Kimberley. Suspected premises were raided, and during searches, drugs were discovered hidden in different locations inside the houses with the assistance of SAPS narcotics K9.
Three suspects, aged between 26 and 52, were arrested and substances including suspected Tik and Mandrax were confiscated.
In a separate incident, the vigilance of Vala Umgodi members led to the arrest of two men for violations of immigration laws. The suspects attempted to flee from an approaching police vehicle but were swiftly cornered and apprehended.
Earlier in the week, on Wednesday, 20 August 2025, teams in the Namakwa District arrested 15 individuals, aged between 34 and 44, in Nuttaboi, Kleinzee, for contravening immigration laws.
All arrested suspects are expected to appear in the Magistrates’ Courts soon, while investigations continue.
Operation Vala Umgodi remains steadfast in its mandate to combat illicit mining and curb criminality across the province.
The public is encouraged to play an active role in the fight against crime by reporting any criminal activities via the MySAPS App or Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
